Edition 214 · April 2026

We welcome short stories on innovations, and success stories and stories that reflect the positive things that the tourism industry is doing to ensure that the industry returns and re-builds.

Submit stories to editor@tourforce.com

Join industry leaders, innovators and changemakers at Ecotourism Australia’s Global Sustainable Tourism Summit 2026, taking place on the Gold Coast from 2–5 June 2026.
This flagship international event brings together the tourism sector to explore real-world solutions across people, planet, place and purpose, through inspiring keynotes, practical case studies and meaningful connections. Hear from international speakers from Slovenia, Malaysia and the UAE, alongside leading voices from across Australia.

Key conversations will tackle building green skills capability across the sector; communicating sustainability with confidence; designing inclusive experiences from the outset, and leveraging nature and wellness to create world-class tourism offerings.

Explore the program and secure your place: https://ecotourism.org.au/gsts-26/

Google is launching a new location share feature in Find Hub to help travellers find lost luggage at the airport. They are also collaborating with SITA and Reunitus to integrate this technology into WorldTracer and NetTracer platforms that power baggage-tracing and recovery operations for airlines and airports worldwide. To date, more than 10 major global airlines have partnered with Google including Air India, China Airlines, Lufthansa Group, Saudia Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines and Turkish Airlines.

Further information: https://blog.google/products-and-platforms/platforms/android/find-hub-luggage/

The New South Wales Government is providing $1.5 million to help deliver events that attract visitors, drive overnight stays, and boost local economies across regions between 1 July 2026 and 30 June 2027. The Regional Event Fund enables communities to host events that reflect their local culture and create authentic experiences under three funding streams – Incubator Event, Flagship and Event Development, Applications close 12 April 2026.

Further information: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/newsroom/regional-nsw-events-to-receive-1-5-million-boost

UN Tourism has opened applications for the Best Tourism Villages 2026 as part of the Tourism for Rural Development Program. The initiative seeks to harness tourism as a catalyst for rural prosperity, resilience and well-being. Since its launch in 2021, Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism has attracted more than 1,000 applications from 100 countries. Applications are evaluated by an independent Advisory Board of global experts based on criteria spanning sustainability, governance, cultural and natural heritage, infrastructure, and community wellbeing. Applications close 9 June 2026.

Further information: https://www.untourism.int/news/un-tourism-opens-call-for-best-tourism-villages-2026

The Tourism Business Capability Subsidy is available to Queensland tourism and event companies to build skills and enhance the delivery of visitor experiences. The subsidy offers up to $2,000 to eligible sole traders, micro, small and medium-sized businesses to support training or accreditation in the areas of sustainability and ecotourism, digital capability and AI, tour guiding, distribution and sales, cultural understanding, quality assurance, accessibility and risk mitigation. Applications close 30 June 2026.

Further information: https://www.detsi.qld.gov.au/tourism/funding-grants/tourism-business-capability-subsidy

A new report from the Swedish Transport Administration has shown a new electric hydrofoil ferry has successfully halved travel times and reduced carbon dioxide emissions compared to existing diesel vessels which account for half of Stockholm’s total public transport emissions. The city has introduced the Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil ferry into regular public transport service between the suburb of Ekero and central Stockholm. Candela’s Stockholm factory is also producing vessels for customers in Mumbai, the Maldives, Thailand, and Berlin.

Further information: https://candela.com/pro-series/p-12-shuttle/

A new report released by New Zealand Cycle Trails Network highlights the 23 Great Rides are revitalising communities, ecosystems, and boosting local economies. The 2025 Evaluation of Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand report draws on survey data gathered from trail users, stakeholders and trail managers, and data collected using counters on the trails. The New Zealand (Aotearoa) Government through the International Conservation and Tourism Levy provides $8 million a year towards trail development, maintenance, and promotion.

Further information: https://www.nzcycletrail.com/about/2025-evaluation-of-nga-haerenga-great-rides-of-new-zealand/

New research commissioned by Sydney Airport shows strong public support for building a domestic Sustainable Aviation Fuel industry. The National Sentiment toward Sustainable Aviation Fuel report surveyed Australians on their views including affordability, domestic production and fuel security. Australia already produces many of the feedstocks needed to make fuel from agricultural crops and residues from used cooking oil and household waste which is currently exported overseas to be processed into fuel.

Further information: https://www.sydneyairport.com.au/corporate/media/corporate-newsroom/australians-back-locally-produced-sustainable-aviation-fuel-and-regional

U-Boat Worx has completed sea trials of the fastest private submersible ever built in the waters off Curaçao. The Super Sub which has 100 kilowatts of horizontal thrust and a top speed of nine knots is capable of descents of up to 45 degrees allowing pilots to navigate underwater topography to an operational depth of 300 metres over a range of up to ten nautical miles. It’s intended for use either as part of yacht programs or as a standalone exploration vessel of underwater features such as reefs and shipwrecks.

Further information: https://www.uboatworx.com/news/u-boat-worx-is-to-deliver-their-new-super-sub-following-landmark-curacao-trials

Virgin Limited-Edition, part of the hospitality group Virgin Hotels Collection, is developing a new hotel within a 10-hectare private agricultural estate 25-minutes from central Marrakech. The new 37-suite small luxury will feature homegrown produce and wellness inspired by Moroccan craftsmanship and Berber traditions. Bookings are set to open in September 2026 ahead of the opening in 2027.

Further information: https://www.virginlimitededition.com/trade-and-press/press-releases/virgin-limited-edition-announces-a-new-hotel-near-marrakech/

Tourism Western Australia is inviting proposals from experienced tourism investors to partner with the Shire of Ravensthorpe in delivering unique and environmentally sensitive tourist accommodation in the Hamersley Inlet Reserve, adjacent to the Fitzgerald River National Park. The reserve is located near the town of Hopetoun on the southern coast of Western Australia and borders one of only five UNESCO biosphere reserves in Australia. This opportunity is part of the State Government’s $17.7 million National Park Tourism Experiences Development program. Proposals are due 12 May 2026.

Further information: https://www.tourism.wa.gov.au/pages/new-southern-coast-eco-stay-partnership-opportunit

Journey Beyond has entered into an agreement with Kelsian Group to acquire the SeaLink portfolio of tourism experiences including operations on Sydney Harbour, the Swan River in Perth, the Whitsundays, Bruny Island, Darwin, K’gari Island, the Murray River and Adelaide. The $161 million agreement will expand Journey Beyond’s presence across Australia adding ferry and cruise operations, island resorts and sightseeing tours to its existing rail and lodge portfolio.

Further information: https://media.journeybeyond.com.au/news/journey-beyond-enters-agreement-to-acquire-sealinks-tourism-portfolio/

Visit Finland is launching a new marketing campaign to highlight the places where Finns spend their summer. The Chill like a Finn campaign aims to increase the international awareness of the region and attract tourists from Central Europe, Great Britain and Spain. It will be implemented on social media and visitors can participate in the Chill like a Finn challenge by filming a video in which they describe what they imagine a Finnish summer vacation to be like by including experiences such as sauna, swimming and enjoying nature.

Further information: https://www.visitfinland.fi/ajankohtaista/tiedotteet/2026/kansainvalinen-matkailukampanja-esittelee-suomalaisen-kesaloman-maailmalle/

Mastercard has launched a new AI-powered travel concierge in collaboration with India’s leading online travel platform. Lifestyle Navigator has been integrated with MakeMyTrip’s GenAI assistant Myra to combine AI and insights to deliver highly personalised travel recommendations, curated experiences, and exclusive global offers. The platform will also integrate Mastercard’s Priceless Experiences along with premium travel content from leading Indian and global influencers enabling travellers to discover unique experiences tailored to their interests.

Further information: https://www.mastercard.com/news/ap/en-in/newsroom/press-releases/en-in/2026/march/mastercard-selects-india-to-introduce-lifestyle-navigator-its-global-ai-powered-concierge-in-collaboration-with-makemytrip-s-myra/

Teide National Park, one of Spain’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Canary Islands, is scheduled to implement its first-ever ecotax in 2026 to manage visitors and preserve natural heritage. The ecotax is part of a larger initiative by the local government to protect the park’s fragile ecosystems from the negative impacts of more than 4 million tourists a year. It will be used as a tool to regulate visitor numbers and fund environmental conservation initiatives demonstrating how responsible tourism can contribute to environmental preservation while providing an example for other natural areas worldwide.

Further information: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/spains-teide-national-park-introduces-groundbreaking-ecotax-to-manage-visitor-influx-and-preserve-natural-heritage/

Several national parks and tiger reserves in India have implemented a complete ban on the use of mobile phones inside national parks during safaris following strict guidance from the Supreme Court of India. The order applies to tourists, guides, naturalists, and drivers of safari vehicles and is based on observations that phone usage during tiger safaris leads to unsafe and disruptive behaviour. It is also intended to help reduce noise and maintain the natural cadence of the forest by preventing dangerous actions such as taking selfies or getting too close to wildlife.

Further information: https://www.ranthamborenationalpark.com/blog/mobile-phones-banned/

Oregon has become the first U.S. state to pioneer a new standard for inclusive travel by earning ‘Accessibility Verified’ status from Wheel the World. The landmark designation elevates transparency and promotes inclusivity in travel experiences for people with visible and non-visible disabilities. The partnership is part of a broader strategy to make Oregon more inclusive by offering visitors with disabilities and/or mobility challenges the opportunity to plan travel itineraries through an online resource. that provides tailored recommendations based on their specific needs.

Further information: https://industry.traveloregon.com/newsroom/news/oregon-becomes-first-state-to-earn-accessibility-verified-status-from-wheel-the-world

Tourism Australia has launched a new sustainability initiative to rally tourism and business events organisations around a shared promise to protect and strengthen Australia’s natural environments, cultures and communities. The Green and Gold Promise is a formal commitment to embrace five principles which guide responsible visitor behaviour and make for more sustainable tourism experiences. Industry can also access a toolkit that provides practical resources on how to share these principles with every visitor.

Further information: https://www.tourism.australia.com/en/news-and-events/news/tourism-australia-unveils-new-industry-wide-initiative.html

The 2025 edition of Destination Stewardship: A Guide to Action on Climate Change brings together ideas, actions and examples that can help destinations strengthen resilience and make climate-smart decisions every day. It includes practical actions across planning, measurement, decarbonisation, regeneration, collaboration and financing. The guide is designed to bring government, industry and communities together around climate solutions based on examples from California, Fiji, Scotland and Singapore.

Further information: https://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/guidetoaction/

G Adventures has replaced its annual destination-focused travel forecast with a research-backed look at the experiences and moments that create long-term joy, purpose and fulfilment for travellers. The Travel Your Heart Out: Happiness List 2026 is based on a global study of 8,000 travellers with the findings highlighting a strong link between travel and wellbeing. The research also shows a shift in motivation with travellers choosing trips based on the experiences they offer rather than the destination itself. It follows the launch of the company’s new Travel Your Heart Out brand platform which centres on meaningful travel and personal transformation rather than passport stamps.

Further information: https://www.gadventures.com/blog/travel-your-heart-out-brand-refresh/

The World Bank has released a report which shares key lessons learned from 10 years of knowledge and operational work in tourism development across 80 countries. The Tourism for Development report highlights tourism’s role in development, examines research gaps, and recommends ways to improve the design of lending operations. It is designed for professionals involved in tourism development and offers actionable insights to help ensure that tourism remains a driver of economic recovery, as well as a pillar of sustainable and inclusive development.

Further information: https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/13c58035-ad87-4c2c-85e5-4edf205378ec

The European Commission announced during the 2025 Global Tourism Forum in Belgium the development of its first-ever sustainable tourism strategy. The European Union Sustainable Tourism Strategy 2026 aims to shape a competitive, sustainable, and inclusive tourism model that aligns with Europe’s environmental goals, supports local communities and natural heritage, as well as strengthening the sector’s resilience to crises from climate shocks to geopolitical disruptions. It builds upon the 2022 Transition Pathway for Tourism and the European Union Agenda for Tourism 2030.

Further information: https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/10/21/eu-unveils-first-ever-tourism-strategy-focusing-on-sustainability

Intrepid Travel has released a new resource to help travel companies build environmental awareness among travellers to protect wildlife, ecosystems, and biodiversity. The Ambassadors for Nature Guide was developed with support from the University of Tasmania’s Antarctic Tourism Research Program and has practical tools, case studies and recommendations for travel operators, agents and destination management organisations.

Further information: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/newsroom/releases/open-source-guide-empowering-travellers-to-become-ambassadors-for-nature

Amadeus and IE University are accepting applications for the 6th edition of the Travel4Impact entrepreneurship program which supports small businesses in travel and tourism sector address social and environmental challenges. This fully funded four-month learning journey combines networking and live sessions on impact measurement, communication, digital marketing and AI. Applications close 4 May 2026.

Further information: https://amadeus.com/en/sustainability/social/travel4impact

The winners of the EXO Foundation Sustainability Awards have been announced from a field of over 60 applicants. The awards aim to identify, support and promote pioneering projects driving sustainability innovation in Asia including the countries of Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore. A panel of international sustainable tourism experts evaluated and selected the winners across non-profits, non-government organisations, associations, cooperatives, social enterprises and travel companies.

Further information: https://exofoundation.org/sustainabilityawards/

A new study by the European Travel Commission has examined four responsible travel behaviours including travelling off-season, going off the beaten track, engaging with local communities, and travelling green. The Assessment of Responsible Travel Behaviours of Long-haul Travellers to Europe report found that visitors are receptive to small practical adjustments that reduce tourism pressure including choosing local accommodation, planning slower itineraries or using rail when convenient. The survey of 3,000 respondents included a qualitative analysis of traveller conversations and AI-assisted reviews of editorial media.

Further information: https://etc-corporate.org/reports/assessment-of-responsible-travel-behaviours-of-long-haul-travellers-to-europe/

Hilton has released a report on the key global trends for 2026 including how travellers are embracing travel driven by emotional motivations and a longing for experiences that feel meaningful. The Whycation: Travel’s New Starting Point report is backed by a survey of more than 14,000 travellers across 14 countries with proprietary insights from Hilton team and Honors loyalty members. The key global trends include Hushpitality, Home Comforts, Generation Permutations, Inheritourism, and The U.S. Road Trip Returns.

Further information: https://stories.hilton.com/releases/2026-trends-release

A report from Grand View Research has found that dark tourism is rising in popularity with more travellers increasingly visiting sites associated with death and tragedy. Contributing to its growth is the accessibility of destinations, as well as documentaries, films and TV series that feature infamous sites. Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube are also fuelling the trend with influencers and travel bloggers highlighting their visits to these sites which in turn inspires followers. Many dark tourism sites have also introduced interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs to enhance the visitor experience.

Further information: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-dark-tourism-market

The Southern Africa Tourism Services Association, in partnership with Futureneer Advisors, has released a new white paper outlining the economic impact of adventure tourism, as well as the gaps and opportunities for South Africa. The Adventure Tourism 3.0 White Paper discusses how innovation is creating a shift away from niche, high-intensity adventure toward a broader, more inclusive market. The report also highlights the importance of integrating professional standards through initiatives like self-regulation frameworks such as self-assessment tools, self-regulation roadmaps, codes of good practice and industry toolkits.

Further information: https://www.satsa.com/news/adventure-tourism-generates-billions-south-african-economy-industry-targets-global-market

Skyscanner has released research which highlights the key trends shaping the travel landscape including evolving spending behaviours, AI influencing trip planning, and the latest emerging destination hotspots. The Horizons 2025-2026: Travel Outlook report captures the key patterns shaping the future of travel based on proprietary search and booking data with insights from a OnePoll survey of 22,000 travellers from across 18 markets globally.

Further information: https://www.partners.skyscanner.net/news-case-studies/horizons-2026

Travel booking platform Klook has released the fourth edition of its annual global consumer research which uncovers emerging travel behaviours and sentiment from Millennials and Gen Z. The Klook Travel Pulse 2026 report reveals strong international travel intent, rising experience-led spending, and a shift toward multi-destination journeys. The survey covers 11,000 consumers from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Chinese Mainland, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, India, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, United Kingdom and U.S.A.

Further information: https://www.klook.com/newsroom/travelpulse-2026-biggerbudgets-boldertrips/

British Airways Holidays, in association with Globetrender, have released a report spotlighting the most popular destinations customers are searching for and forecasting the emerging trends that will shape British traveller behaviour over the coming year. The British Airways Holidays Travel Trends Report 2026 report involved qualitative research from travel writers, journalists, tourism professionals and wellness practitioners, as well as quantitative data from a survey of 2,104 adults in November 2025.

Further information: https://globetrender.com/product/british-airways-holidays-travel-trends-report-2026/

Contiki has released its annual Voice of a Generation survey to help understand the top motivators and expectations of Gen Z and Millennial travellers in 2026. Now in its fifth year, the survey found that 18–35-year-olds care about travelling although cost still plays a big role and they would give up having kids to save money for future travels.

Further information: https://www.contiki.com/six-two/article/voice-of-a-generation-2025/

The 10th edition of Booking.com’s Travel Predictions reveals that travellers in 2026 are moving beyond one-size-fits-all itineraries and embracing ultra-personalized journeys that reflect their quirks, goals, and passions. The survey is based on insights from more than 29,000 travellers across 33 countries and territories who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12–24 months.

Further information: https://www.booking.com/articles/2026-travel-predictions.html

Luxury travel network Virtuoso has revealed the findings of its annual survey that forecasts travel patterns and preferences for the year ahead. The Virtuoso Luxe Report identified five key trends for 2026 including Crowd Control, Main Character Synergy, From FOMO to Slow-mo, Unlimited Luxe, and The Healthy Wealthy. The report is based on insights from clients worldwide and over 2,400 travel Virtuoso-affiliated agencies across more than 50 countries.

Further information: https://static.virtuoso.com/division-marketing/PR/2025%20Press%20Releases/2026%20Luxe%20Report_Global_FINAL.pdf

A new VisitBritain report shows the tourism sector’s contribution to the U.K. economy and employment, its impact across regions, and potential for growth. The Economic Value of Tourism in the U.K. report explores tourism’s importance to job creation, tax revenues, patterns in inbound and domestic tourism, and growth potential. Oxford Economics conducted the economic modelling and analysis for VisitBritain and VisitEngland.

Further information: https://www.visitbritain.org/research-insights/economic-value-tourism

The 7th International Congress on Rural Tourism will be held in Rab, Croatia from 6-9 May 2026. The event for the public and private sectors aims to connect science and practice in encouraging the sustainable development of rural tourism.

Further information: https://kongres.klubselo.hr/en

The World Trails Conference is being held in Perth from 19-22 October 2026. This event offers an opportunity for industry to help shape the future of trails and share expertise across trail planning, governance, tourism, regional development, conservation and First Nations connection to Country.

Further information: https://worldtrailsconference.org/

The Australian Regional Tourism Convention will be held in Busselton, Western Australia from 20-23 October 2026. Join regional tourism leaders from across the country for a few days of practical discussion, shared learning and connection.

Further information: https://regionaltourism.com.au/convention/